E-Safety

Our curriculum leader for Computing is Frances Smith

At Houghton Primary school the E-Safety curriculum is broken down into two main objectives.

In years 1&2 we focus on using technology safely and respectfully, keeping personal information private. We work with the children to identify where to go for help and support when they have concerns about content or contact on the internet or other online technologies.

During years 3-6 the focus is on using technology safely, respectfully and responsibly. We work with the children to help them recognise acceptable/unacceptable behaviour and to identify a range of ways to report concerns about content and contact.

E-Safety is taught on a termly basis in all year groups. In addition to this we have recently hosted ‘Alter Ego’, a professional drama group, and invited other local schools to bring classes to join us in watching their production of ‘In the net’. This child friendly production focused on cyber bullying and safe internet use in an entertaining yet thought provoking manner. Some members of Year 6 have also created a film which they are entering into the Cambridgeshire Young People’s Film Festival. This short film will act as a stimulus for further discussions in school on the children’s feelings regarding the use of social media and mobile devices.

We also have a very active pupil E-Safety group. The 'E-Safety Crew' is made up from a group of children in year 6 who meet regularly with Mrs Smith to discuss any issues which are current and in need of addressing with our pupils. This half term they have decided to focus on social media apps, in particular the age restrictions relating to these and the potential problems associated with their use. They have designed and put together their own interactive display to draw attention to this issue and to start discussion among the children; they have also spoken during assemblies to inform the children of new issues as they arise. Next term they plan to focus on the issues of gaming, drawing attention to the potential for online contact through games, age restrictions -PEG ratings, accidental buying of in game purchases and addiction.

Our E-Safety Crew members.

Our crew putting up their interactive display to provoke debate and discussion regarding social media apps.

The crew also regularly help to review and adapt our pupil Acceptable Use Policies (AUPs) to keep them relevant and meaningful; working with the class reps they deliver and explain these to each class in an age appropriate way, ensuring all pupils recognise their responsibilities when online.

Useful links for parents

We work very hard as a school to keep our parents as up to date as posible with the latest issues and E-safety news and regularly send out relevant updates and links through our school Facebook page.